As part of the residential we will spend some time in the beautiful countryside of Crockham Hill, collecting samples of pollinators for the UK Pollinator Monitoring Scheme. We will also be monitoring bumblebee populations for the Bumblebee Conservation Trust.
The honey bee is a fascinating insect and the craft of beekeeping is an ancient one. You will gain an understanding of how the honey bee colony reproduces by swarming and the difference between the queen, worker and drone bees. You will have the chance to look inside a hive and learn some beekeeping techniques.
You will be learning about the magic of honey and how bees are able to convert nectar so it can be stored for years. You will extract some honey from it’s frame, some of which you can take home to share with your family.
From 20th to 24th July 2026 at Fryland’s Wood Scout Outdoor Centre, Featherbed Lane, Croydon, CR0 9AA. For candidates aged 16 to 24.
As a Duke of Edinburgh approved activity provider we are able to fulfil all the requirements of your gold skills residential. You will learn about honey bees and how to care for them as well as the importance of other bees and pollinators.
Within a small group of 6 students, you will learn about the importance of pollinators to our ecosystem and ways in which numbers are monitored to protect their health.
You will learn about the vast array of different pollinators that work in our environment to provide us with seeds, fruits and vegetables. We will focus on identifying different pollinators and providing habitats for them.
On completion of the course, we will act as your assessor and submit a report to your eDofE page.
Maximum group size is six, providing a close knit team. Your expectations and aims will be taken into account so that the learning is tailored to your needs.
Accommodation will be a chalet in the natural beauty of the 60 acre Fryland’s Wood Scout Outdoor Centre. You will also have the chance to partake in some of the activities provided at Fryland’s including tomahawk throwing and archery.
Meals will be provided and all dietary requirements can be catered for. Evening meals will be cooked on the barbeque or the Fryland’s Wood pizza oven.
All equipment will be provided. Candidates are required to bring their own sleeping bag and bedding. Collection and drop off from East Croydon Railway Station or parking is available at the site.
Cost per candidate is £800 with a £100 deposit payable on booking. Balance to be paid by 22nd June 2026.
Our local Rotary club have very kindly offered to subsidise two places. See our pricing policy to check if you are eligible.
Please read our terms and conditions here before filling the online application form here
Find out about our apiary site and accommodation at Fryland’s Wood here: https://frylandswood.co.uk/
